November is Hockey Fights Cancer Month, during which every team in the National Hockey League hosts their own Hockey Fights Cancer Night, where players, fans, team personnel, and partners come together to raise awareness for the important fight against cancer.
The New Jersey Devils supported the NHL's annual Hockey Fights Cancer initiative during their Saturday, November 23, 2019 game against the Detroit Red Wings.
As part of the initiative, the Devils signed 10-year-old brain cancer survivor, Grace Eline from Long Hill, NJ to a one-day contract for Saturday’s game. Earlier in the week, Grace joined the Devils at practice, was fitted with her own hockey equipment and joined the team on ice.
Grace skating in full equipment (left) and with NJ Devils Center Jack Hughes (right) during practice. [Photo credit: Dan DellaPiazza]
Grace was treated at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, an RWJBarnabs Health facility, and Rutgers Cancer Institute. Grace has achieved N.E.D. status meaning there is no evidence of disease. RWJBarnabas Health is the Official Healthcare Provider of the New Jersey Devils.
Prior to the game itself on the 23rd, Grace and her family joined Coach Hynes for pregame media availability, read the team’s starting lineup and participated on ice for a ceremonial puck drop.
